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Host rating
100 %
Last replied
22 Nov 2024
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Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
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Description
Welcome to an extraordinary opportunity to be part of a unique blend of history, art, and hands-on craftsmanship nestled in the heart of Burgundy, France. In a charming village surrounded by the lush, rolling hills of Morvan Natural Regional Park, we are bringing to life a 13th-century Gothic-inspired edifice. During the summer months, this structure takes shape with the dedicated help of volunteers, as we carefully build using traditional techniques that celebrate the beauty of Gothic architecture and the enduring skills of historic masonry.
Your hosts, Don and Sam Russell, alongside our long-standing volunteer Jim, are passionate about preserving and sharing the richness of this art. Don, the visionary and skilled artisan behind this project, and Sam, who diligently upgrades and maintains the property, work tirelessly year-round to keep this project evolving.
In the summer, volunteers join us to assist with masonry and other integral tasks as we work together on the edifice. In autumn and spring, we turn our focus to essential projects that enhance our infrastructure, allowing the site to thrive. For a month each winter, we welcome a volunteer who can offer companionship and meal preparation for Don, adding warmth and care to the coldest season.
Here, we embrace a spirit of good humor, camaraderie, and shared learning. Each day offers the chance to acquire new skills, build lasting friendships, and create memories in a beautiful, positive setting. This project is more than just work; it’s an experience that will leave a mark on both you and the landscape for centuries to come. Join us in building something truly timeless!
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Creating/ Cooking family meals
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
This project is the gradual fulfillment of Donald's wild and fabulous dream, a wonder to be seen and be part of. We can host up to 8 volunteers and what our guests bring to the project has become a valued aspect of the adventure. Several nationalities rub shoulders on the site. The team (between 4 and 8 people) gathers every midday to share a meal, this is an important part of the team's social cohesion and we are always pleased to welcome newcomers to the table. The discussions take place in both English and French. Our team is bilingual and willing to translate if necessary!
Help
We are looking for volunteers to do miscellaneous tasks such as meal preparation, site maintenance, masonry and construction, training given, plus other odd tasks. If visitors have any other particular skills we might find a way to put them to use.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: FluentThis host offers a language exchange
French and English
Accommodation
Free accommodation is provided and consists of a dormitory and a shared bathroom.
All meals are free. We take turns preparing lunch and everyone comes together for this convivial midday meal. Our shared, on-site kitchen provides everything necessary for breakfast and dinner. Resident workers prepare these meals on their own or together if they wish.
What else ...
We are located in the Morvan Regional Natural Park in Burgundy and we all share a love for our beautiful region, so rich in fauna, flora, and history. Many beautiful hiking trails through forests and fields with lakes and streams.
There is a bus stop 14 km from the site in Château Chinon where we can pick you up especially if you are arriving from the train station in Nevers.
We often take our volunteers on trips and frequently socialize in the evening while enjoying a BBQ.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
We have high-speed Internet.
Space for parking camper vans
We have parking for one or two vans on the road next to our project.
Can possibly accept pets
As long as well they are well-behaved and controlled, and clean up the pet's "business" promptly.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Feedback (7)
call home. it's a place where you're welcomed with open arms and ideas and a few beers and stones to boot.
very unique work experience where you'll learn about arches and… read more
In terms of what to expect, it's in very rural France so you have to… read more
The work is physically demanding but fun and it's really great to be a part of this amazing project.
I will never forget… read more
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Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.4)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(4.9)
call home. it's a place where you're welcomed with open arms and ideas and a few beers and stones to boot.
very unique work experience where you'll learn about arches and… read more
In terms of what to expect, it's in very rural France so you have to… read more
The work is physically demanding but fun and it's really great to be a part of this amazing project.
I will never forget… read more
Prior to my arrival, I agreed to spend approximately two months with the intended goals of (1) improving my French language skills and (2) gaining rudimentary knowledge in the field of masonry. Through daily work and interactions with … read more
